Propulsion Test Engineer (Stage Systems)

ABOUT ASTROBASE SPACE TECHNOLOGIES

Astrobase is a pioneering spacetech startup founded by prominent Senior ISRO scientists and IIT Bombay alumni with over 20 years of experience in designing, manufacturing, testing and flying advanced Cryogenic Launch Vehicles. Driven by a vision to make India a Space tech powerhouse, we are developing innovative launch vehicles that will transform space exploration. At Astrobase, you’ll be part of a team creating history in the Indian space industry. Our goal is to become the first private space company from India to land on the moon economically. Our Propulsion team is looking for experienced and passionate professionals who have designed and hot-fired preburners or gas generators.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan testing and acceptance of the methalox stage fluid and propulsion systems, from component checks to integrated stage tests.
• Prepare test requests: objectives, test article configuration, instrumentation, success criteria and data needs.
• Give inputs to assembly and testing teams: inspection and checkout points, test sequences and the stage servicing document.
• Plan fluid servicing for stage tests with subsystem teams; confirm configuration and readiness before each test.
• Analyse test data against predictions and acceptance criteria; report anomalies and feed the learning back into test plans and design.
• Track non-conformances, rework and as-built/as-tested configuration for each stage; close issues with design and quality teams.
• Write test reports and acceptance data packages; deliver accepted stage hardware for integration and launch.
• Support stage tests, servicing and launch campaigns on site.

DESIRED QUALIFICATION

• B.E./B.Tech/M.E./M.Tech/M.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• Min. 4+ years in testing, integration or acceptance of fluid or propulsion hardware for launch vehicles, spacecraft or similar high-pressure/cryogenic systems.
• Hands-on work experience with ground testing: proof and leak tests, functional checks, cold-flow, cryogenic or hot-fire tests.
• Experience with cryogenic fluids (LOX, LCH4 or LH2).
• Reading P&IDs and drawings; writing test requests, sequences and reports.
• Working experience with Python, AutoCAD, Fusion/Inventor or similar CAD, and analysis and plotting tools (MATLAB, Python libraries or similar).
• Test data reduction and analysis.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION

• Prior work on similar systems and hardware: stage or engine test campaigns and test stands.
• Stage servicing and propellant loading operations; GSE and umbilical interfaces.
• Instrumentation and data acquisition: sensor calibration, DAQ set-up and data quality checks.
• Handling and plotting large test and flight datasets.
• Propellant service cleaning; cleanliness and FOD controls during assembly and test.
• Hazard awareness for oxygen, methane and stored pressure energy; hazard analysis and FMEA.
• Acceptance testing, test readiness reviews, NCR handling and as-built records; aerospace quality-system experience.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Salary: ₹24–36 LPA fixed CTC, variable pay based on experience and role fitment.
• Attractive early-stage stock options (ESOPs).
• Group health insurance: employee, spouse, children and parents.
• Insurance: term-life and personal-accident cover.
• Work environment: Challenging, stimulating, research-driven work solving rocket problems every day with a great team. We have a good time, and unlimited coffee.

WHY WORK WITH US?

At Astrobase, we believe in the power of human ingenuity and collaboration to push the boundaries of space exploration. As a team member, you’ll be:

1. Creating History: Join us in developing cutting-edge launch vehicles, playing a pivotal role in transforming space access and shaping the future of space exploration.

2. Collaborating with Experts: Work alongside ISRO scientists and industry veterans with decades of experience in designing India’s iconic space missions like Chandrayaan 3

3. Growth Opportunities: As Astrobase scales, you’ll have the chance to take on leadership roles and be part of an expanding organization driving change in the Indian space sector.

4. Pioneering Space Technology: Your contributions will not only impact Astrobase but also influence the global space ecosystem. Be part of something larger than yourself.

Astrobase is an equal-opportunity employer; we hire on skills, merit and experience. Apply with your CV and a short note